Municipal Assistance Program – Shared Services and Planning (MAP-SSP)
🏛 Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Can you apply?
This grant is for Pennsylvania local governments seeking to improve efficiency through shared services or advance planning initiatives. Eligible applicants include municipalities, townships, boroughs, and county governments within Pennsylvania. Funding supports planning and implementation of shared municipal services, and comprehensive community planning. Activities emphasize intergovernmental collaboration and sustainable development approaches.
This grant is for Pennsylvania local governments seeking to improve efficiency through shared services or advance planning initiatives. Eligible applicants include municipalities, townships, boroughs, and county governments within Pennsylvania. Funding supports planning and implementation of shared municipal services, and comprehensive community planning. Activities emphasize intergovernmental collaboration and sustainable development approaches.
Program description
Provides funding to assist local governments to plan for and efficiently implement a variety of services and improvements, and soundly manage development with an emphasis on intergovernmental approaches. Funding is available for two groups of activities: shared services, and community planning.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for Pennsylvania local governments seeking to improve efficiency through shared services or advance planning initiatives. Eligible applicants include municipalities, townships, boroughs, and county governments within Pennsylvania. Funding supports planning and implementation of shared municipal services, and comprehensive community planning. Activities emphasize intergovernmental collaboration and sustainable development approaches.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Cover letter or application form
- Project narrative/proposal
- Budget and budget narrative
- Evidence of municipal support or council resolution
- Partners' commitment letters (if applicable)
FAQ
Who can apply for MAP-SSP funding?
Pennsylvania local government entities including municipalities, townships, boroughs, and counties are eligible. Multi-jurisdictional collaborations are encouraged.
What activities does this grant fund?
Funding covers shared services implementation and community planning projects. Emphasis is on intergovernmental approaches and efficient service delivery.
Is there a deadline for applications?
Check with Pennsylvania DCED for current deadline information. Programs typically open annually or on rolling basis.
How much can we request?
Award amounts are not specified in program documentation. Contact DCED directly for funding range and limits.
Is cost-sharing required?
No cost-sharing or matching funds are required for this grant.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Emphasize how your project reduces municipal costs or improves service delivery through collaboration. Show fiscal benefits clearly.
- Partner with other municipalities if possible. Intergovernmental projects align with program priorities.
- Focus applications on sustainable, long-term improvements. One-time projects are less competitive.
- Contact Pennsylvania DCED staff early. They can clarify current priorities and help refine your project scope.
- Document baseline conditions and measurable outcomes. Show how planning or shared services will benefit residents.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applicants underestimate administrative costs for shared services coordination. Unclear measurement of cost savings or service improvements weakens proposals. Submissions lack evidence of municipal support or intergovernmental commitment.
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